Insomnia and poor sleep quality are hypertension risks

When it comes to high blood pressure – or hypertension – there are many factors that come into play: Diet, weight, smoking and alcohol use can all be attributed to your rising blood pressure.

In fact, lack of sleep is also a factor. Getting a good night’s rest not only determines your energy level the next day, but plays a large role in hypertension.

Blood pressure is the amount of blood pumped from your heart against blood vessels. This process is vital for blood flow, as well as carrying oxygen and nutrients. Hypertension refers to an excessive amount of blood flow being pushed from the heart.

Blood pressure out of control?

Think of a garden hose and the water flowing through it. When the water pressure is normal, the water comes out smooth and controlled. But if you continue to turn the knob and water starts gushing out more rapidly, the hose is now under a lot of stress and becomes less controllable.

This is similar to your blood vessels and your blood flow. High blood pressure is not only damaging to your blood vessels, but it’s also bad for your overall health. Hypertension generally worsens with age, but simple steps can keep it within normal levels. Having trouble keeping yours under control? If you’re doing all the right things to keep your blood pressure down, it may be your sleeping patterns that are hindering your success.

Continue reading at http://www.belmarrahealth.com/insomnia-and-poor-sleep-quality-are-hypertension-risks/